A bit of a sceptic approach should be allowed with a chemical free and organic course. As golfers, we tend to prefer an artificial Disneyland setting with everything perfect and plants growing only where "planned". A tree within the oval might work in cricket as an amiable feature, but in golf - maybe not. And achieving all this organically? Nope.

After playing at New Malton, I have to say that a natural Disneyland can exist. A fantastic course, challenging but allowing width for the younger player. A swan family with 7 signets crossing the fairway, two pheasants fighting for territory on the side of the 10th and a variety of beautiful birds is more than enough "flair" for me. I now rather ask myself why I thought that so much nature must be the exception, not the rule.

Whatever does the trick, this course is getting it right. Would I pay for organic? Honestly: No. But all-year fast and fantastic greens and a wonderful course with great value-for-money. Yes! Organic on top of that? Perfect.